Joao L. Goncalves, 86, of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, in the home that he built, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Laurinda (Rosario) Goncalves, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and beautiful memories. Born in Mangualde, Portugal, Joao was the son of the late Bernardo Goncalves and Palmira De Jesus Goncalves. Before immigrating to the United States, Joao proudly served four years in the Portuguese Military while stationed in Mozambique. In 1966, he moved to America and settled in Pawtucket, where he established deep roots and became a pillar of the local community.

A man of exceptional character and a tireless worker who thoroughly enjoyed helping others, Joao was a proud member of the Local 271 International Laborers Union for over 30 years. His dedication to his Portuguese heritage was a cornerstone of his life; he was an active member of the União Portuguese Beneficiente (UPB) in Pawtucket until his passing and served as a co-founding member of the Irmandade do Divino Espírito Santo do UPB and the former Irmandade do Divino Espírito Santo da Sagrada Coração de Jesus. He also held membership with the Club Juventude Lusitana of Cumberland.

An enthusiast of life’s simple pleasures, Joao was an avid traveler and a passionate supporter of the Sporting Lions Soccer Club and the Boston Red Sox. He was often found fishing, tending to his garden, or playing the traditional card game sueca. He took immense pride in making his own wine and was well-known for his love of dancing and the joy he felt during large family gatherings. In his later years, he found great happiness spending time with his friends at New Horizon in Pawtucket.

In addition to his beloved wife, Laurinda, he is survived by his children, Susan Do Carmo and her husband Rogerio of Pawtucket, and Steven Goncalves and his loving soulmate Cinnamon Rose of Cumberland. He was the proud and loving grandfather of Collin, Jace, Brenda, and Haley. Joao also leaves behind his sisters, Emilia Costa of Seekonk and Maria Rainho of Florida, and was predeceased by his brother, Manuel L. Goncalves.

There will be a Mass of Christian Burial for Joao on Friday, April 17th at 11:00 AM in St. John Paul II Catholic Church, 755 Central Avenue, Pawtucket. His burial will follow in Mt. St. Mary’s Cemetery, Pawtucket. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, April 16th from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm in the Manning-Heffern O'Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage Street, Pawtucket. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend.